What are the three basic functions of every radio transmitter?

The three basic functions of every radio transmitter are to generate a signal, modulate it, and then amplify that modulated signal before transmission.

Generating a signal is the first step, where the transmitter creates a carrier wave usually at a specific frequency. This carrier wave serves as the foundational signal that will carry information, such as voice or data, through the air or other transmission mediums.

Modulation is the next critical step, where the generated signal is altered in some way—typically by varying its amplitude, frequency, or phase—to encode the information being transmitted. This process allows the signal to represent the data that needs to be sent, making it suitable for effective transmission over distance.

Finally, amplification is necessary to ensure that the modulated signal can travel over long distances. The amplification process boosts the power of the signal so that it can overcome various forms of signal loss—such as atmospheric attenuation and other interferences—ensuring reliable transmission to the intended receiver.

Options that mention functions like reflect or decode do not fit the fundamental roles of a radio transmitter. Reflecting is not a transmitter function, while encoding and decoding are typically associated with communication systems rather than the transmission process itself.